Despite the name, dry cleaning isn’t completely 'dry'. Instead, it uses a liquid solvent rather than water to clean clothes and fabrics. This solvent, typically a chemical called perchloroethylene (or 'perc'), lifts dirt and stains without soaking fabrics in water. This method is especially helpful for delicate or water-sensitive materials, like wool, silk, or leather, which could shrink, stretch, or get damaged in a regular washing machine.
Why use dry cleaning?
You might be wondering, why not just throw everything in the washing machine? The answer lies in the type of fabrics and the level of care they need. Dry cleaning offers a gentle yet effective way to clean clothes that can’t handle water or the tumbling of a washing machine. In fact, dry cleaning can even help your clothes last longer because it’s less harsh on delicate fibres.
Here are some common reasons to use dry cleaning:
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Delicate fabrics like silk and wool are protected from shrinking or stretching.
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Structured garments like suits and blazers keep their shape and finish.
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Deep stain removal for oil-based stains, which are harder to treat with regular washing.
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Preserving details like beading or embroidery, which can get damaged in a washer.
How does dry cleaning work?
Dry cleaning starts with inspecting the clothing for stains, loose buttons, or areas that need special attention. After that, here’s a general rundown of what happens next:
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Spot treatment: Any visible stains are treated with special cleaning solutions designed to target specific types of stains, like grease or wine.
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The dry cleaning machine: Garments are loaded into a dry cleaning machine, which looks a bit like a big washing machine. The machine uses the solvent to 'wash' the clothes, loosening and lifting away dirt and oils. Unlike water, the solvent is gentle on fabrics and doesn’t cause shrinking or stretching.
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Solvent extraction and drying: After the clothes have been cleaned, the machine removes the solvent, leaving clothes practically dry. They’re then given a gentle drying to get rid of any residual solvent.
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Pressing and finishing: Once cleaned, garments are pressed or steamed to remove any wrinkles. This step brings back that crisp, fresh look, especially for dress shirts, suits, and other formal wear.
How often should you dry clean clothes?
How often you dry clean depends on the item and how frequently you wear it. Here’s a quick guide:
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Suits and jackets: After 5-6 wears, or when they’re visibly dirty.
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Silk blouses or dresses: After 1-2 wears, as silk can absorb oils and odours easily.
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Formal wear: Typically after every use, especially if it’s been a night of heavy dancing!
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Winter coats: Once or twice a season, or more if they’re exposed to stains or dirt.
With casual items like sweaters or pants, a quick airing or a gentle brush can keep them fresh between cleans. Always check your garment’s care label to see what it recommends, and don’t be afraid to ask the dry cleaner for their advice.
Some tips for getting the best results
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Point out any stains: When you drop off clothes, let the dry cleaner know about any stains or problem areas. This helps them give the item special attention and can lead to better results.
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Check your pockets: This one’s easy to forget! Removing anything in pockets prevents it from accidentally damaging the garment or the dry cleaning machine.
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Be mindful of frequency: Dry cleaning is great for certain clothes, but overdoing it can wear them out. Try spot cleaning between dry cleans to extend the life of your favourite pieces.
Dry cleaning might seem like a fancy laundry process, but it’s really just about giving your favourite items a little extra TLC. From removing stubborn stains to protecting delicate fabrics, dry cleaning is a handy tool for anyone who wants to keep their wardrobe looking fresh.
